The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has condemned the reported Federal High Court order directing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the National Democratic Party (NDC), describing it as a major setback for Nigeria’s democracy.
In a statement issued on Friday by its National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, the PDP said it was awaiting the Certified True Copy of the judgment but expressed concern over what it called the implications of the court’s decision.
The party argued that the reported order would further shrink Nigeria’s democratic space, especially after many Nigerians had contested elective offices on the platform of the NDC.
“This order is not only an asphyxiation of multiparty democracy in Nigeria but also an economic crime against Nigerians who invested in the party,” the statement said.
The PDP alleged that the development aligned with what it described as the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC)-led Federal Government’s efforts to weaken opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“This situation, though activated through the court, fits neatly into the playbook of the APC-led Federal Government, which appears unwilling to allow the survival of a genuine opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections, in order to pave the way for the President’s unchallenged re-election.”
The opposition party further accused the Federal Government of undermining fair political competition.
“The absurdities that have occurred under the APC Federal Government clearly demonstrate its disdain for fair political competition.”
The PDP urged the leadership of the NDC to challenge the court order through legal means while mobilising public support.
“The leadership of the genuine Peoples Democratic Party urges the leadership of the NDC to vigorously challenge this order within the ambit of the law while seeking the support of the Nigerian people in the struggle for democratic consolidation.”
The party also called on the Federal Government to take steps to ease political tensions and safeguard democratic values.
“The Federal Government must take practical steps to reduce the political temperature of the country in the interest of peace, stability, and the preservation of democracy,” the statement added.